DALLAS – The Dallas Mavericks returned to the court Wednesday night for the first time since multiple fans were ejected from the American Airlines Center for violating the NBA’s Code of Conduct.
Sources within the organization told FOX 4 that moving forward, signs and apparel similar to those that led to Monday’s ejections will not automatically be prohibited, provided they do not compromise the safety or experience of other attendees.
Mavericks Clarify Fan Policy
According to a team source, fans will not be removed from the arena as long as they adhere to the NBA’s Code of Conduct and respect the safety and environment of the venue.
While signs with messages such as “Fire Nico” may be confiscated, and shirts deemed in violation of the Code of Conduct may require coverage, respectful expressions of opinion will not necessarily result in ejection.
Key policies include:
- Signs must not exceed the NBA’s 11×17-inch size limit.
- Clothing and signage displaying obscene or indecent messages are strictly prohibited.
- The NBA Code of Conduct will now be prominently displayed on concession stand screens and the backs of courtside seats.
Pre-Game Tensions and Fan Experiences
On Wednesday, some fans faced restrictions before they even entered the arena.
Andrew Fox arrived at the American Airlines Center wearing a newly purchased $17 t-shirt with the phrase “Fire Nico.” However, he was given an ultimatum—remove the shirt or wear something over it.
“I should be entitled to my own opinion,” Fox stated, adding that arena staff assured him he could retrieve his shirt after the game.
The tension among Mavericks fans has been palpable since the controversial trade that sent superstar Luka Dončić to the Los Angeles Lakers. Frustration boiled over on Monday night, when multiple fans were ejected during the Mavericks’ game against the Sacramento Kings.
The organization cited violations of the NBA Code of Conduct as the reason for the removals. Two of the ejected fans had displayed “Fire Nico” signs, referencing Mavericks general manager Nico Harrison.
In a separate incident, another fan was asked to leave after wearing a shirt depicting team owner Miriam Adelson as a clown. The Mavericks stated that he and another individual were “intoxicated, disruptive, and uncooperative,” though the fans in question have denied being under the influence.
Footage from the game shows a heated exchange between the ejected fans and Mavericks’ minority owner Mark Cuban. In a statement to FOX 4, Cuban criticized the fans for yelling while the Mavericks were attempting crucial free throws late in a close game.
The Mavericks ultimately fell to the Kings in overtime.
Internal Response and Team Morale
Following Monday’s events, head coach Jason Kidd opted out of his usual post-game press conference.
Meanwhile, team governor Patrick Dumont addressed the growing frustration within the organization, sending an internal message to Mavericks employees on Saturday. In his communication, Dumont acknowledged the low morale and expressed gratitude for the staff’s hard work during this challenging period.
As the Mavericks navigate both on-court struggles and off-court tensions, the team’s approach to fan interactions and its enforcement of conduct policies will continue to be closely watched.
